On 4 March 2026, UPD organized a capacity building training session in Dowa District, held at Manac Hall.
The event was conducted under the theme:
“Mental Health Awareness: Breaking Stigma and Providing Support for Refugees with Disabilities in Malawi.”
The training brought together more than 15 participants, including community members, women, young girls, and persons living with disabilities.
Promoting Mental Health Awareness and Inclusion
Mental health remains a critical issue among vulnerable communities, particularly for refugees living with disabilities.
Through this training, UPD aimed to:
Promote inclusive and supportive environments
Raise awareness about mental health challenges
Break stigma surrounding disability
Strengthen professional skills among participants
Key Topics Covered During the Training
The session was facilitated by Mr. Mphatso, who guided participants through several important topics including:
- Breaking stigma around disability
- Leadership and teamwork
- Project management skills
- Inclusive workplace practices
- Communication skills
These topics were designed to strengthen participants’ ability to support their communities and improve professional performance.
Interactive Learning Through Practical Exercises
Participants engaged in practical exercises and teamwork activities, allowing them to apply new concepts and strengthen collaboration.
These interactive sessions helped participants develop:
Improved project management capacity
Leadership abilities
Effective communication skills
Stronger teamwork and collaboration
Impact of the Training
The training had a meaningful impact on participants.
By the end of the session, participants had:
Strengthened their capacity to support persons with disabilities
Gained new professional skills
Increased their understanding of mental health issues
More than 70% of the participants were women, young girls, and persons living with disabilities, highlighting the importance of inclusive participation in community development.
UPD’s Commitment to Inclusion
UPD continues to promote empowerment, inclusion, and equal opportunities for persons living with disabilities in Malawi.
Through education, training, advocacy, and community programs, UPD works to ensure that persons with disabilities can fully participate in society and access the support they need.
